What's so lame about it? Is Scarecrow's fear gas lame? Why does he need a mask to inhale painkillers? It would make much more sense, because the Venom gave him his strength. It even made sense in Batman and Robin (though not the inflating up like a balloon part).

Why does he need a mask to inhale painkillers? Because he needs the painkillers at all times. That's like asking why you need oxygen.